Intel Celeron N2840 Vs Intel Atom X5-z8350: Which Low-power Processor Reigns Supreme?

In the realm of budget processors, two contenders stand out: the Intel Celeron N2840 and the Intel Atom X5-Z8350. These processors offer a balance of affordability and performance, making them suitable for everyday computing tasks. But how do they compare against each other? In this comprehensive analysis, we delve into the specifications, features, and benchmarks of the Intel Celeron N2840 and Intel Atom X5-Z8350 to determine which one emerges as the superior choice for budget-conscious users.

Head-to-Head Comparison: Intel Celeron N2840 vs Intel Atom X5-Z8350

1. Architecture and Core Configuration

The Intel Celeron N2840 is built on the 22nm Silvermont architecture, featuring four cores and four threads. It operates at a base clock speed of 2.16 GHz and can turbo boost up to 2.58 GHz. On the other hand, the Intel Atom X5-Z8350 is based on the 14nm Airmont architecture, also featuring four cores and four threads. It has a slightly lower base clock speed of 1.44 GHz but can turbo boost up to 1.92 GHz.

2. Cache and Memory Support

Both processors come with 2MB of L2 cache, providing faster access to frequently used data. The Intel Celeron N2840 supports up to 8GB of DDR3L memory, while the Intel Atom X5-Z8350 supports up to 8GB of LPDDR3 memory.

3. Graphics Performance

The Intel Celeron N2840 integrates the Intel HD Graphics (Bay Trail) GPU with 16 execution units (EUs) running at a frequency of up to 756 MHz. The Intel Atom X5-Z8350, on the other hand, features the Intel HD Graphics (Cherry Trail) GPU with 12 EUs operating at a frequency of up to 600 MHz. Both GPUs offer basic graphics capabilities for everyday tasks and casual gaming.

4. Power Consumption and Thermal Design Power (TDP)

The Intel Celeron N2840 has a TDP of 7.5W, making it suitable for devices with limited power budgets, such as 2-in-1 laptops and fanless mini PCs. The Intel Atom X5-Z8350, with a TDP of 2W, is even more power-efficient, making it ideal for ultra-portable devices like tablets and smartphones.

5. Performance Benchmarks

In terms of performance, the Intel Celeron N2840 generally outperforms the Intel Atom X5-Z8350 in most benchmarks. It offers better single-core and multi-core performance, making it more suitable for multitasking and demanding applications. However, the Intel Atom X5-Z8350 excels in terms of power efficiency and battery life due to its lower TDP.

6. Price and Availability

The Intel Celeron N2840 and Intel Atom X5-Z8350 are both budget-friendly processors, with prices typically ranging from $50 to $100. They are widely available in various devices, including laptops, tablets, mini PCs, and embedded systems.

7. Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between the Intel Celeron N2840 and Intel Atom X5-Z8350 depends on your specific needs and priorities. If you prioritize performance and are willing to trade off some power efficiency, the Intel Celeron N2840 is the better choice. However, if you value ultra-portability, long battery life, and low power consumption, the Intel Atom X5-Z8350 is the way to go.

Beyond the Numbers: Real-World Usage Scenarios

To provide a more comprehensive understanding of the real-world performance differences between the Intel Celeron N2840 and Intel Atom X5-Z8350, let’s explore some common usage scenarios:

1. Web Browsing and Office Productivity

Both processors can handle basic web browsing, email, and office productivity tasks without any significant issues. However, the Intel Celeron N2840 offers a smoother and more responsive experience, especially when multitasking or working with multiple tabs and applications.

2. Media Consumption and Casual Gaming

The Intel Celeron N2840’s superior graphics performance makes it a better choice for casual gaming and media consumption. It can handle 1080p video playback and light gaming at playable frame rates. The Intel Atom X5-Z8350, while capable of handling basic media playback, may struggle with more demanding games or high-resolution videos.

3. Battery Life and Portability

The Intel Atom X5-Z8350’s lower power consumption translates to longer battery life, making it ideal for devices that are frequently used on the go. Laptops and tablets equipped with the Intel Atom X5-Z8350 can provide several hours of usage on a single charge, making them suitable for students, travelers, and mobile professionals.

Making an Informed Decision: Factors to Consider

When choosing between the Intel Celeron N2840 and Intel Atom X5-Z8350, consider the following factors:

• Performance Requirements: Assess your typical computing needs and determine whether you prioritize raw performance or power efficiency.
• Portability and Battery Life: Consider the importance of portability and battery life for your intended use case.
• Graphics Performance: Evaluate your gaming and media consumption habits to determine if you need a processor with better graphics capabilities.
• Budget: Set a budget for your device and compare the prices of devices equipped with the Intel Celeron N2840 and Intel Atom X5-Z8350.

The Verdict: A Budget-Friendly Choice for Different Needs

Both the Intel Celeron N2840 and Intel Atom X5-Z8350 offer compelling options for budget-conscious users. The Intel Celeron N2840 provides better overall performance, while the Intel Atom X5-Z8350 excels in terms of power efficiency and battery life. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific requirements and priorities.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

Q1. Which processor is better for gaming, the Intel Celeron N2840 or Intel Atom X5-Z8350?

A1. The Intel Celeron N2840 offers better graphics performance and can handle casual gaming at playable frame rates. The Intel Atom X5-Z8350 is not suitable for demanding games.

Q2. Can I use the Intel Celeron N2840 or Intel Atom X5-Z8350 for video editing?

A2. While both processors can handle basic video editing tasks, they are not ideal for professional or intensive video editing workloads.

Q3. Which processor consumes less power, the Intel Celeron N2840 or Intel Atom X5-Z8350?

A3. The Intel Atom X5-Z8350 has a lower TDP and consumes less power than the Intel Celeron N2840, making it more suitable for devices that prioritize battery life.